An NHS doctor charged with posting social media content in support of Hamas defiantly shouted 'game on' today after being released on bail from Westminster Magistrates' Court. Dr Rahmeh Aladwan, a 31-year-old British Palestinian, indicated not guilty pleas to four counts of inviting support for the proscribed terrorist group, with charges spanning from July 23 to December 31 last year.
Court Proceedings and Charges
The court heard that the alleged offences relate to online comments or material posted by Aladwan, which led to charges under the Terrorism Act. Additionally, she pleaded not guilty to two further counts: stirring up racial hatred through a speech at a protest on July 21 in King Charles Street, Westminster, and through publishing written material on November 19.
Post-Hearing Protests
Following the hearing, Aladwan was greeted by over a dozen protesters outside the court, who waved Palestinian flags, carried placards, and banged a drum. After being handed a microphone, she directly addressed Health Secretary Wes Streeting, shouting: 'Let me tell you again Wesley Streeting, game on! Game on! Free Palestine!'
The alleged incidents occurred on four separate dates: July 23, August 23, October 7, and December 31. Aladwan was arrested at her home in Pilning, south Gloucestershire, yesterday morning for allegedly breaching police bail conditions imposed after previous arrests. She was then taken to a central London police station and charged with the six offences.
Bail and Ongoing Investigations
Appearing in the dock wearing a beige hoodie and a black jacket, Aladwan spoke only to confirm her identity and indicate her pleas. She was released on conditional bail ahead of a next hearing scheduled for April 24 at the Old Bailey. Concurrently, she is under investigation by the General Medical Council (GMC), having been suspended from practice for 15 months in November.
GMC Guidelines and Context
The GMC's social media guidelines acknowledge that clinical personnel have 'freedom of belief, privacy and expression', but must balance this with 'the possible impact on other people's rights and interests'. This case unfolds against the backdrop of Hamas's attack on October 7, 2023, which killed around 1,200 Israelis and abducted 251 hostages. A UN report detailed that Hamas attackers raped women at the Nova music festival site, used 'sexualised torture' against hostages, and raped women's corpses.
Aladwan's arrest and charges highlight the complex intersection of professional conduct, free speech, and legal boundaries in the context of proscribed organisations. The case continues to draw attention as it progresses through the judicial system, with implications for both the medical community and broader societal debates on terrorism and racial hatred.
